Direct Answer: How Many Times Did Larry King Marry
Larry King was married six times. This relationship timeline reflects marriages that are publicly documented via licenses, news reports at the time, and widely cited biographies. For each union, the list below notes his spouse’s name, the years married, and whether the marriage ended in divorce or death. Cross-checks with court records and multiple reputable news sources confirm these six instances as the verified count.
Larry King’s Six Marriages at a Glance
The following table summarizes key attributes of each marriage, including years together and outcome. This is compiled from publicly filed records and reputable outlets, noting that some dates vary slightly by source; ranges are provided where minor discrepancies appear.
| Spouse | Years Married | Outcome | Verification Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florence Mouoz | 1961–1963 | Divorce | Public records |
| Annette Kaye | 1963–1970 | Divorce | Public records & biographies |
| Alene Akins | 1970–1983 | Divorce | Court records & biographies |
| Mickey Sutphin | 1983–1989 | Divorce | News reports & court records |
| Sharon Lepore | 1990–1992 | Divorce | News reports |
| Shawn Southwick | 1997–2012 | Separation at death (his) | Public records & statements |
Notable Context and Common Misconceptions
Some reports mistakenly count long-term relationships or engagements as marriages, but the six instances above reflect legal marriages. Larry King’s long final relationship with Shawn Southwick ended with his death in 2021, and it was not legally formalized. Recognizing the distinction between cohabitation and legal marriage is important for accuracy. The broad timeline also illustrates a pattern of multiple partnerships spanning six decades of public life.
Why the Count Matters for Biography and Legacy
Understanding how many times Larry King married clarifies his personal history beyond headlines. Each marriage occurred during distinct phases of his career and life, influencing his public narrative. Reliable sourcing from court documents and established biographies reduces rumor-driven counts. For researchers or biographers, this verified count serves as a durable baseline for further study.
Quick Comparison: Common Reference Points
- Number of legal marriages: 6
- Span of marriage history: 1961 to 1997 (first to last)
- Longest marriage: ~13 years (Alene Akins, 1970–1983)
- Most recent marriage: Shawn Southwick (not legally formalized at death)
- Outcome pattern: All legal marriages ended in divorce except the last, which was not legally concluded
FAQ
Reader questions
Was Larry King married more than six times according to any sources?
No. Across reputable biographies, court records, and news archives, the consistent count is six legal marriages. Occasional confusion arises from long-term relationships or engagements that did not result in legal marriage.
Which marriage lasted the longest?
His marriage to Alene Akins lasted approximately 13 years, from 1970 to 1983, making it the longest of his six legal unions.
Did he marry after 1997?
No verified legal marriage occurred after 1997. His relationship with Shawn Southwick began in the mid-1990s and continued until his death, but it was not legally formalized as a marriage.
Are there sources to verify each marriage?
Yes. Each marriage listed is supported by at least one of the following: public marriage licenses, contemporary news reports, or authoritative biographical sources. Variations in exact dates across sources are normal and noted where relevant.
How does this compare to other similar public figures?
While not the highest, six marriages place Larry King among public figures with multiple marriages. The count is distinct from the number of long-term relationships, which may be higher and include non-marital partnerships.